Chloe Covell, the youngest member of Team Australia at the Paris Olympics, recently sat down for an exclusive interview with Kids News at Sydney's Coogee Beach. The 14-year-old skateboarder, who made waves during the Games, discussed her experiences and future aspirations, attracting a crowd of enthusiastic fans eager to catch a glimpse of their hero.
Reflecting on her Olympic journey, Chloe expressed that the best part was reconnecting with friends and wearing the Aussie uniform. Although she didn't stay in the Olympic Village due to age restrictions, she enjoyed visiting her friends' rooms and found the cardboard beds amusing, albeit uncomfortable.
Chloe's family supported her throughout the event, with her father accompanying her as a coach. The bond they share remains strong during competitions, and she appreciates having him as a coach because they can communicate freely both on and off the skateboard.
While she faced challenges in her performance, landing eighth in her first Olympic final, Chloe demonstrated resilience and determination. She emphasized the importance of composure under pressure, saying she manages nerves through deep breathing and positive self-talk.
Chloe also highlighted the friendships she formed with fellow competitors from around the world, showcasing the camaraderie among female skaters. She noted that despite the competitive atmosphere, they uplift each other rather than view each other as rivals.
With an eye on the future, Chloe is already setting her sights on the LA 2028 Olympics. She intends to keep progressing her skills and qualifying for the next Games. Outside of skateboarding, Chloe enjoys surfing, biking, and fishing, and she recently picked up juggling, inspired by a fellow skater.
As she moves forward, Chloe carries with her the lessons learned from the Olympics, especially the value of perseverance. She expressed gratitude to her fans for their support and promises to continue striving for success in the years to come.